Student Flats Earmarked for Listed Derby Building

Plans have been submitted to develop a listed building in Derby into student housing.

The current building in Friar Gate is in desperate need of repair and under the plans the grade-two-listed building will be transformed into eight apartments.

The plans also involve revamping the ground floor retail area, which was once occupied by a motorcycle accessories business. The scheme also calls for a two-storey extension to the rear of the property.

The application has been put forward by Simon Foote Architects on behalf of Jensco Properties, who are also responsible for a large student accommodation scheme currently under construction in nearby Agard Street.

The £17 million development is being built next door to the copper-clad University of Law department, situated on the corner of Ford Street and Agard Street.

Planning documents submitted as part of the most recent application said: "The proposal is to provide a new retail unit at ground floor with student accommodation over, as well as a new outbuilding to the rear providing further student accommodation.

"The property has been vacant for some time and due to this, the building has fallen into a state of disrepair, which is visible along the street scene from Friar Gate. The internal condition of the property unfortunately reflects the same condition as the external."

It's hoped the new building will breathe life into the area and increase footfall along one of the main routes into Derby city centre.

The applicants argued the proposed scheme should set a precedent to further enhance the other surrounding properties, which will revitalise the historic area.